Road Trips from Surprise, AZ
Looking for a quick escape from Surprise? You've got options ranging from short, easy drives to longer excursions, with a good number of national monuments and parks within reach. The terrain varies, too, with some routes offering high-altitude climbs and others staying mostly flat. Whether you want a half-day trip with park access or a more substantial drive, there's a route that fits.
Total Routes
6
Shortest
2h
With Parks Nearby
5
Full-day getaway
Benson, AZ
3h 23m186.6 mi one way
Nogales, AZ
3h 45m204.1 mi one way
For a longer day trip, Nogales is 3.8 hours away, mostly on surface roads with gently rolling terrain. It stands out for its proximity to multiple historical sites, including Tumacácori National Historical Park and Saguaro National Park, which are farther than parks near other destinations.
Big Park, AZ
2h105.2 mi one way
Flowing Wells, AZ
2h 28m134.7 mi one way
Weekend trip
Clifton, AZ
5h 6m234.8 mi one way
At 5.1 hours, Clifton is the longest drive. This route utilizes mixed highway and surface roads, with high-altitude sections and climbs. It's a more significant commitment than other options, offering access to Tonto and Casa Grande Ruins National Monuments.
Kayenta, AZ
5h 30m290.6 mi one way
Kayenta is the longest route at 5.5 hours, primarily on surface roads with high-altitude climbs. It offers a different park selection, including Walnut Canyon National Monument, distinct from the closer monument options.
Browse by Mood
Clifton, AZ
5h 6m234.8 mi one way
Benson, AZ
3h 23m186.6 mi one way
Nogales, AZ
3h 45m204.1 mi one way
Big Park, AZ
2h105.2 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Spring drives offer pleasant temperatures for exploring high-altitude terrain and visiting parks like Tuzigoot National Monument.
Summer
Summer excursions involve navigating high-altitude climbs and hotter weather, making early morning park visits advisable.
Fall
Fall provides cooler conditions for drives through high-altitude sections and exploring historical monuments.
Winter
Winter trips are well-suited for the high-altitude terrain and visiting national monuments without extreme heat.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Surprise, AZ city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.